PLDT Accelerates Cell Site Solarization as Energy Costs Rise

PLDT Inc. (PLDT) is accelerating the solarization of its cell sites as part of a sustainability-aligned strategy to manage rising electricity costs and strengthen network resilience amid global inflationary pressures and ongoing geopolitical tensions.

“With the current environment, it’s still too early to tell how consumer behavior will ultimately evolve,” said PLDT Chief Operating Officer and Head of Network Menardo “Butch” Jimenez Jr. “We’re looking at initial data to understand any impact on our business. On our end, the bigger focus is really on managing costs—especially electricity and fuel—and that’s where our sustainability initiatives come in.”

Jimenez said electricity and fuel remain the most significant and volatile drivers of PLDT’s operating expenses. While fuel costs are partly cushioned by the telco’s special pricing agreements with major fuel distributors, electricity costs are more exposed to market fluctuations due to the absence of long-term contracts across facilities.

“That’s where we’re seeing the biggest jump,” he said. “We’re becoming much more disciplined in how we manage power consumption, and we’re accelerating our ability to solarize our cell sites. This allows us to become more efficient and gives us greater control over our energy costs.”

From long-term strategy to operational resilience

The accelerated solarization program builds on PLDT and Smart’s green transition, previously highlighted as a key pillar of operational resilience amid the global energy crisis. Anchored on the Group’s commitment to reduce Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 40% by 2030, decarbonization has been embedded into network planning, facility operations, and energy procurement over several years.

By expanding the use of on-site solar power at cell sites, PLDT reduces dependence on grid electricity, improves cost predictability, and enhances network stability—particularly in areas vulnerable to power disruptions and price volatility.

“We don’t have the benefit of perfect visibility given global conditions,” Jimenez added. “What we can do is act decisively on the areas we can control. Solarizing a lot of our sites strengthens our resilience while supporting our sustainability goals.”

Sustainability as a cost and reliability lever

PLDT and Smart’s broader sustainability initiatives continue to support this effort. Several major facilities in Greater Metro Manila already operate entirely on renewable energy, while high-consumption buildings are powered through clean energy supply agreements. Smart’s AI-enabled green radio technology further reduces energy use by dynamically adjusting a cell site’s power consumption based on real-time demand.

“As long as current pressures do not extend deep into the second half of the year, we believe these measures will allow us to manage on the OPEX side,” Jimenez said. “Our priority is to protect our network, manage costs responsibly, and continue delivering reliable connectivity for our customers.”

COLORFUL Launches iGame B850M ULTRA Series Motherboards for AMD Ryzen Platforms

Shenzhen, China — Colorful Technology Company Limited, a globally recognized manufacturer of gaming PC components, gaming laptops, and HiFi audio products, has officially unveiled the new iGame B850M ULTRA Series motherboards for AMD Ryzen platforms. The lineup includes the iGame B850M ULTRA-S and the iGame B850M ULTRA-OC, both engineered to deliver high-performance computing for gamers, creators, and PC enthusiasts.

The new Micro-ATX motherboards combine powerful hardware features with a sleek all-black aesthetic, designed to perfectly complement the latest iGame GeForce RTX 50 Series ULTRA graphics cards. With matte-finish cooling armor and premium build quality, the motherboards are tailored for modern gaming rigs and content creation setups.

Both motherboards support the latest AMD Ryzen desktop processors, including the Ryzen 9000 Series X3D CPUs. They also feature next-generation technologies such as Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4, PCIe 5.0 connectivity, and high-speed DDR5 memory support with AMD EXPO compatibility. These features ensure faster data transfer, improved responsiveness, and enhanced multitasking performance for demanding workloads.

The iGame B850M ULTRA-S is designed for mainstream gamers and professionals seeking stable and reliable performance. It features a robust 14+2+1 phase 80A DrMOS power design and dual 8-pin CPU power connectors to support flagship processors under heavy loads. The motherboard supports up to 256GB of DDR5 memory with overclocking speeds reaching DDR5-8400. Storage capabilities include three M.2 slots, two of which support PCIe 5.0 x4 SSDs for ultra-fast storage performance.

Meanwhile, the iGame B850M ULTRA-OC targets enthusiasts and overclockers. Equipped with a 10+2+1 phase 60A DrMOS power design, the board is optimized for high-performance Ryzen processors such as the Ryzen 9 9950X3D. It features a dual-DIMM memory layout that supports DDR5 overclocking up to DDR5-8800. The motherboard also includes four M.2 slots and upgraded 5Gb Ethernet networking for faster wired connectivity.

Additional features across the series include PCIe 5.0 graphics support, USB Type-C connectivity, quick-release M.2 heatsinks, VGA snap-fit quick release, and synchronized ARGB lighting customization.

For pricing and availability, COLORFUL advises customers to contact their local representatives for regional details.

Globe GFiber Prepaid and GCash Power Maypajo Public Market, Bringing Digital & Financial Inclusion to Caloocan’s Heartbeat of Commerce

Globe AT HOME, in partnership with GCash, is transforming traditional palengkes into digital marketplaces, bringing connectivity and financial inclusion to the heart of the communities. Globe President and CEO Carl Cruz and Chief Commercial Officer Darius Delgado visited the Maypajo Public Market, home to almost 400 vendors that cater to over 96 thousand residents, in South Caloocan, to witness the activation of GFiber Prepaid WiFi. This marks the fourth palengke powered by Globe AT HOME’s GFiber Prepaid, and the first in Metro Manila, following successful rollouts in Lucena, Baliwag, and Valencia.

For many Filipinos, the palengke is more than a place to buy essential goods; it is the heartbeat of local commerce, sustaining livelihoods and nurturing families. Yet poor connectivity has long kept vendors and shoppers locked in cash‑heavy transactions, limiting access to financial tools and digital opportunities.

“At Globe, we believe that care for our customers means care for the communities and trade ecosystems they belong to. The palengke is more than an economic hub; it is the center of local commerce, where livelihoods are sustained, and families thrive. By bringing GFiber Prepaid in partnership with GCash into these spaces, we are empowering local vendors and small businesses to embrace digital tools that make transactions seamless, secure, and inclusive. This is how we demonstrate #AlagangGlobe: by giving every business owner, every suki, and every family the connectivity they need to grow, succeed, and feel supported to keep going, “ said Carl Cruz, President and CEO at Globe.

Globe AT HOME is shattering digital barriers at the Maypajo Public Market, bringing the power of a seamless free WiFi connection through GFiber Prepaid directly to the heart of the community. With eight GFiber Prepaid devices pumping speeds of up to 100Mbps, the marketplace has evolved into a consistent, dynamic, and reliable hub of opportunity.

This isn't just about the internet; it's about dignity and growth. Vendors who once struggled now hold the keys to their future with instant access to digital credit, insurance, and bookkeeping. Shoppers no longer worry about heavy pockets or exact change, moving through stalls with the simple, modern ease of "scan-to-pay."

“For too long, traditional markets have been left behind in the digital economy, limiting opportunities for vendors and customers alike. With Globe AT HOME’s GFiber Prepaid and GCash, we are transforming palengkes into digital marketplaces, opening doors to digital and financial inclusion, social commerce, and resilience for Filipino families. This is more than connectivity; it is the connection that empowers the Filipino. By modernizing the informal sector, we are building a stronger, more inclusive nation where every Filipino can participate fully in the digital future,” added Chief Commercial Officer Darius Delgado.

"Connectivity is what makes digital inclusion possible. When people are connected, they can access digital financial services that help them save, pay, and grow their livelihoods. It bridges the gap between everyday needs and essential financial tools, especially for underserved communities," GCash for Business General Manager Paul Albano added. For its part, GCash champions the power of connectivity by investing in initiatives that help expand internet access through Globe.

By fueling this reliable, consistent network, Globe GFiber Prepaid is doing more than modernizing stalls; it is empowering Filipino families to dream bigger through social commerce and online marketplaces. This is progress you can feel. This is the resilient future of Filipino trade.

“We are deeply thankful to Globe and GCash for choosing Maypajo Public Market as a partner in this initiative. By equipping our palengke with free and reliable GFiber Prepaid WiFi, makakalahok na ngayon ang aming vendors at mga suki sa digital economy nang walang kahirap-hirap. This opens opportunities para makareach ng mas maraming suppliers at customers, at tinitiyak na handa na ang Maypajo Public Market para sa [digital commerce] bilang bahagi ng growth ng ating lungsod,” expressed Aurora Ciego, City Administrator of Caloocan City Government.

Lisa, a long‑standing vendor at Maypajo, shared her excitement: “Bilang matagal nang tindera sa palengke, dahil sa Globe GFiber Prepaid, sobrang saya ko na finally may libre at mabilis na WiFi na kami dito. Sa GCash, mas madali na mag‑send at mag‑receive ng mga bayad, at dahil sa free WiFi, tuloy‑tuloy ang aking pag‑live‑selling na ‘di nauubos ’yung [data] ko. Malaking tipid ito na madadala ko pauwi para sa pamilya ko, lalo na ngayong panahon. Talagang pinalakas at mas binuhay pa ng Globe ang aming palengke.”

By turning traditional markets into digital marketplaces, Globe AT HOME and GCash are not only modernizing commerce but also empowering communities, fostering financial inclusion, and strengthening resilience for Filipino families as we keep going together.



To learn more about Globe AT HOME’s GFiber Prepaid, visit https://glbe.com.ph/GFP-PR.

PLDT Global Bets on TinBo and Vortex to Help Philippine Brands Win Overseas Filipinos

TinBo and Vortex PH are positioned as top‑of‑mind platforms for end‑to‑end overseas Filipino engagement—from marketplace distribution to targeted digital advertising

With millions of Filipinos living and working abroad, the overseas Filipino market has become an increasingly important growth area for Philippine businesses.

PLDT Global Corporation (PLDT Global) is making a clear pitch to the market: engaging overseas Filipinos requires platforms that are built for how they live, spend, and stay connected across borders.

The company is sharpening its position as the partner of choice for brands looking to turn overseas reach into real engagement by offering an integrated ecosystem that moves beyond one‑off campaigns. At the center of this strategy are Tindahan ni Bossing (TinBo) and Vortex, supported by the company’s digital ad management solutions—platforms designed to help brands connect with overseas Filipinos in ways that are relevant, scalable, and measurable.

“The overseas Filipino market is no longer niche. It is a powerful, high‑intent segment that Philippine businesses cannot afford to overlook,” said Albert V. Villa‑real, President and CEO of PLDT Global. “Through TinBo, Vortex, and our digital ad management solutions, we are giving brands a clear, scalable pathway to reach Filipinos wherever they are—from distribution and visibility to sustained engagement. This is about opening doors for Philippine enterprises to grow beyond borders, using platforms built specifically for the global Filipino community.”

TinBo, PLDT Global’s digital marketplace, enables brands to engage overseas Filipinos through essential goods, digital vouchers, and services that support families back home—turning everyday transactions into ongoing relationships rooted in trust and purpose.

Beyond commerce, TinBo enables digital identity through the Smart Virtual Number (SVN)—a cloud-based Philippine mobile number that enables Filipinos abroad access to communications, authentication, and financial services.

TinBo serves over half a million Filipinos in the Middle East, North America, Europe, and Asia.

Complementing this is Vortex, a digital distribution platform designed to help merchants scale efficiently. By enabling faster integration and multi‑channel deployment, Vortex helps businesses accelerate their go‑to‑market strategies and expand their reach across global Filipino audiences.

Tying these platforms together is PLDT Global’s digital ad management solution, which allows brands to run targeted, data‑driven campaigns that keep them visible and relevant to overseas Filipinos across regions.

TinBo and Vortex serve millions of Filipinos across the Middle East, North America, Europe, and Asia. Together, these platforms empower Philippine brands to unlock opportunities in the global overseas Filipino market — enabling them to compete, connect, and grow on the international stage.

To introduce its digital growth platforms to more Philippine businesses, PLDT Global is set to hold an exclusive networking event on May 21, 2026, at Monarch Manila - Makati, titled Sync City ‘26: Reaching Filipinos Worldwide. The event will bring together brands and merchants to explore new collaboration opportunities and unlock growth in the overseas Filipino market through TinBo and Vortex.

Designed as a strategic business initiative, the event will showcase how companies can leverage PLDT Global’s solutions to better reach, connect, and engage Filipinos around the world.

Interested businesses may visit https://www.pldtglobal.com/en/news-and-insights/Sync-City26-Partners-Event for more information.

Jollibee and Mobile Legends: Bang Bang Launch Exciting GameJoy Experience for Filipino Gamers

Filipino gamers and food lovers now have something exciting to look forward to as Jollibee and Mobile Legends: Bang Bang (MLBB) officially team up to bring a unique nationwide gaming and dining experience. The collaboration combines Jollibee’s well-loved meals with the thrilling world of MLBB, creating an enjoyable and rewarding adventure for fans across the Philippines.

Running from May 20 to August 19, the partnership introduces the all-new GameJoy Combos, specially designed for gamers who want to enjoy delicious meals while earning exclusive MLBB rewards. Priced at only ₱169, each GameJoy Combo comes packed with handheld meals, crispy fries, refreshing drinks, and the iconic Peach Mango Pie that many Filipinos love. However, the excitement does not stop with the food.

Every GameJoy Combo also includes collectible MLBB hero cards and a unique PIN code that unlocks mystery in-game rewards. These exclusive digital rewards add an extra layer of excitement for MLBB players, giving them more reasons to enjoy their favorite game while dining at Jollibee. Fans can collect different hero cards and discover surprises waiting for them inside the game.

The collaboration highlights the continuously growing gaming community in the Philippines. Mobile Legends: Bang Bang has become one of the country’s most popular mobile games, attracting millions of players from different age groups. By partnering with MLBB, Jollibee connects with the passion of Filipino gamers and creates memorable moments that combine entertainment, competition, and great food.

This campaign also reflects how gaming culture has become deeply integrated into everyday Filipino life. Many players enjoy bonding with friends and teammates over meals while discussing strategies, celebrating victories, or simply having fun. Jollibee’s GameJoy Combos aim to make these experiences even more enjoyable through exclusive collectibles and in-game bonuses.

Beyond the rewards and meals, the partnership showcases how brands can creatively engage communities through shared interests. Jollibee and MLBB successfully merge food and gaming into a single experience that appeals to both longtime fans and newcomers alike.

As the GameJoy promotion continues nationwide until August 19, Filipino gamers have plenty of time to grab their favorite combo meals, collect hero cards, and unlock exciting MLBB rewards. For fans of both Jollibee and Mobile Legends: Bang Bang, this collaboration offers the perfect combination of fun, flavor, and gaming excitement.